High wind watch, fire warning in effect for Kent County Feb. 19

Friday

Feb 18, 2011 at 12:01 AMFeb 18, 2011 at 6:22 PM

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, N.J., has issued a high wind watch, which is in effect from late Friday, Feb. 18, through Saturday evening, Feb. 19. In addition, a red flag fire weather warning is in effect.

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, N.J., has issued a high wind watch, which is in effect from late Friday, Feb. 18, through Saturday evening, Feb. 19. In addition, a red flag fire weather warning is in effect.

Gusty to locally damaging winds are possible on Saturday. Numerous tree limbs will be knocked down along with weaker trees and power lines.

Winds are expected to be sustained northwest 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph. The highest winds and gusts are expected to occur between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19.

With winds, residents can expect power outages. Downed trees and tree limbs could damage vehicles parked under them. Winds will make it difficult to drive high profile vehicles especially on bridges and overpasses.

A high wind watch means there is the potential for a hazardous high wind event. Sustained winds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or stronger may occur.

The red flag fire warning is in effect from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19. Because of meteorological conditions the potential exists for rapid spread if uncontrolled fires develop. The fire danger will be elevated due to the strong winds, recent lack of precipitation, low relative humidity values and dry fuels.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and recent dry weather will create explosive fire growth potential.